The Central Bank of Nigeria has cautioned Nigerians to be wary of an increase in fraudulent messages and cyberattack attempts targeting unsuspecting individuals across digital platforms.

In a statement issued late Tuesday by its Acting Director of Corporate Communications, Hakama Sidi-Ali, the bank said it had identified a growing number of misleading emails, messages, and online content falsely claiming affiliation with the institution.

According to the bank, these deceptive communications are crafted to mislead recipients and trick them into divulging sensitive personal or financial information, often through malicious links or fabricated claims about the bank’s policies and leadership.

The apex bank noted that cybercriminals are increasingly adopting advanced tactics, using digital tools to spread false information and gain unauthorised access to users’ accounts.

It emphasised that all verified information about its operations is published on its official website and advised Nigerians to rely solely on trusted and recognised channels when seeking updates.

The bank also urged the public to exercise caution when handling unsolicited messages or engaging with unfamiliar online platforms, warning that such interactions could result in identity theft or financial losses.

To reduce exposure to fraud, the CBN advised individuals to avoid clicking suspicious links or sharing confidential details on unverified websites, and to confirm the authenticity of any communication attributed to the bank before taking action.

It further encouraged Nigerians to report suspected fraudulent activities to appropriate law enforcement agencies, stressing that tackling cybercrime requires collective vigilance.

Reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding the financial system, the CBN said it is strengthening its cybersecurity infrastructure in collaboration with relevant agencies to protect the public from digital threats.

The warning comes amid rising concerns over cybercrime in Nigeria’s financial sector, where fraudsters continue to exploit digital channels to target both individuals and institutions.

Separately, the CBN and the Nigerian Communications Commission recently entered into a partnership aimed at addressing SIM-related fraud and improving consumer protection within the country’s digital and financial ecosystem.